My first experience at Camp was as a Kids-Week camper in 1996. Camp was always the highlight of my summer and so I kept coming back every year that I could. In 2004, I participated in the Leaders in Training (LIT) Program and over the next 10 years I returned to camp as part of the Bridge Team, Summer Team and eventually, the LIT Director.

         

As I reflect on the impact Camp Crossroads had on my life two thoughts stand out to me. The first is that camp was a safe environment where I felt like I had the freedom to express myself creatively. There is no end of opportunity for creative expression at Camp and this allowed me to develop confidence in expressing that part of how God made me. I’m grateful for what that did in me and how that still influences who I am today. The second thought that stood out to me was the power of influence leaders can have in people’s lives.

As a camper, I was shaped by the leaders I looked up to at camp and as I transitioned to being a leader myself, I felt that weight of influence on so many campers lives. Camp is a place where servant leadership is ingrained into the culture. The leadership that was modeled to me was one of service to others.

Being a leader at camp wasn’t supposed to be about unlimited hot chocolates (although that was nice) it was about loving the campers and making sure they felt and knew the love of God for them while they were with you.

Being a leader at camp wasn’t supposed to be about unlimited hot chocolates (although that was nice) it was about loving the campers and making sure they felt and knew the love of God for them while they were with you. Whenever I read Jesus’ words in Matthew 20, “…you know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” I am reminded of Camp Crossroads and how so many leaders have been obedient to this teaching of Jesus.

Although I never consciously thought I was being discipled at Camp as a camper or even a leader, I can see now how Camp played a critical role in my own discipleship and had a profound impact on my understanding of leadership. For this I am grateful and it’s why I believe Camp ministry has a vital role to play in supporting the local church today.

Jeff Martens lives in St. Catharines and serves as the Outreach Pastor and Operations Director at Cornerstone Community Church. He is married to his wife Michele and they are very excited about their first child arriving this October.